Decorative Tile Panel Recess Geometry for Seamless Grout Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tile panels with imitation grout lines have a compromised visual appearance due to flat, angled recess surfaces and visible seams, which detract from the overall aesthetic and functional integrity.
Innovation Solution
A decorative tile panel with a channel-shaped recess along its side edges, featuring a concavely curved upwardly facing recess surface, optionally enhanced by a separate grout covering layer, to mimic the appearance and functionality of traditional grout lines, while minimizing moisture ingress and enhancing hygiene.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a rectangular groove is milled in the top surface to create an imitation grout line, then the tile panel can mimic traditional tile appearance, but the visual appearance is compromised due to flat angled surfaces and visible seams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by forming the recess with a concavely curved upwardly facing recess surface instead of flat angled surfaces. This curved surface mimics the natural rounded appearance of traditional grout lines, eliminating the artificial look and feel caused by sharp edges and flat surfaces.
2Ease of manufacture
If adjacent side edges are laid in abutting contact to eliminate grout, then installation is simplified, but visible seams appear that split the imitation grout line into two halves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imitation grout line features from adjacent tile panels by providing complementary recesses on each panel. When panels are installed adjacent to each other, the recesses align and merge to form a continuous grout line appearance, eliminating the visible seam that would otherwise split the grout line.
3Reliability
If traditional cement and grout are used to cover surfaces, then durable surface covering is achieved, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the traditional grout line appearance through the concavely curved recess in the tile panel itself. This recess mimics the visual characteristics of traditional grout without requiring actual grout material, thereby achieving the aesthetic effect while simplifying the installation process to eliminate grout application steps.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a decorative tile panel for covering a floor, ceiling, or wall. Furthermore, the invention relates to a surface covering for a floor, ceiling or wall surface which is constructed by a multitude of neighbouring tile panels according to the invention, wherein the plurality of tile panels are preferably interconnected.